Botulism

What is botulism? What causes botulism?

The botulinum toxin generated by clostridium botulinum bacteria causes a deadly paralytic condition called botulism. Clostridium botulinum bacteria are found in both soil and water. Low oxygen levels and certain temperatures favor the production of the botulinum toxins. These toxins are considered to be the most lethal substances known. Botulinum toxins block the normal functioning of the nerves. This results in respiratory muscle paralysis. In the U.S, the number of cases of botulism reported annually comes around 110; most of which are cases of infant botulism. This serious infection, if left untreated can lead to death.

Three main types of botulism are food-borne, wound and infant botulism.

Infant botulism develops when clostridium botulinum bacterial spores enter the baby’s intestinal tract. Because spores of clostridium botulinum bacteria survive in honey, it is better to avoid giving it to babies less than a year old.

How is botulism diagnosed?

The most direct way of diagnosing botulism is to check for the presence of botulinum neurotoxin in the patient's blood, serum, or stool. Antitoxin is administered soon after the clinical diagnosis. Antitoxins cannot regenerate the nerves affected. But it can neutralize the toxins and prevent further damage. Nerve cells have the capacity to regenerate themselves.